Total Complaints
504 filings
MERCEDES-BENZ C300 · model year
504 NHTSA complaints, 11 crash reports, and 11 active recalls for this specific cohort.
NHTSA overall rating
Not crash-tested
New Car Assessment Program
The 2015MERCEDES-BENZC300 carries 504 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 11 crashes, 1 fire, 6 injuries, and 0 fatalities. No NCAP 5-star crash-test rating is available for this model year in the federal database.
Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2015 C300 is engine with 127 filings, followed by fuel/propulsion system (65) and unknown or other (63). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 11 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.
NHTSA currently has 15 investigation files overlapping the 2015 C300. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.
Total Complaints
504 filings
Crashes Reported
11 reports
Source
NHTSA ODI
Federal complaints database
Above median complaint volume — review patterns below.
| Component | Count |
|---|---|
| ENGINE | 127 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 65 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 63 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 48 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 32 |
| STEERING | 22 |
| SUSPENSION | 20 |
| POWER TRAIN | 20 |
| STRUCTURE | 19 |
| AIR BAGS | 11 |
| WHEELS | 8 |
| SERVICE BRAKES | 8 |
| VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY | 8 |
| ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) | 7 |
| VISIBILITY/WIPER | 6 |
STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Mercedes Benz C300, 2017-2019 C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, C63 Cabrio, 2015 C63S AMG, 2018-2019 C300, C350e, C63 AMG, C63S AMG Cabrio, 2018 C63 AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG, C63S AMG Coupe, E300, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2019 CLS450, E
STEERING
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 4Matic and C400 4Matic vehicles manufactured March 28, 2014, to September 18, 2014. If the steering coupling interlock mechanism is not locked in place, the sliding shaft, which is part of the steering column, could become dis
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic, E400 4Matic Wagon, E43 AMG 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and GLC300 4Matic Coupe veh
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 C
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 and C400 4matic sedans manufactured January 27, 2014, to December 1, 2014. Due to an error in the electric power steering control unit software, the affected vehicles may have a loss of electric power steering assist.
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to t
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 and C400 vehicles manufactured from June 18, 2014, through September 5, 2014, that fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 4matic and C400 4matic vehicles manufactured April 7, 2014, to July 25, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may be improperly secured to the fuel tank. Secondly, electrical wires that connect to the fue
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe
COMMUNICATION
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models
Failed/Malfunctioned Component: Rear subframe (structural/chassis component) exhibited advanced corrosion (perforation/rust-through), compromising structural integrity and alignment/handling. Availability for Inspection: Yes. The vehicle and the subframe are available for inspection upon request. I can provide photos, videos, and repair estimates if needed. The corroded subframe is fracture and detach suspension mounting points, which may lead to: Sudden loss of vehicle stability or control (especially during braking, cornering, or over bumps). Unpredictable alignment changes causing pulling, vibration, or abnormal tire wear that can escalate into a loss-of-control event. Increased stopping distance and potential for wheel misalignment or collapse, raising the risk of a crash involving occupants and other road users. I limited driving/use due to the risk; issue is a structural safety concern rather than cosmetic. Confirmation: Yes on multiple visits since Oct 2023 -Yesâdiagnosed a
Failed/Malfunctioned Component: Rear subframe (structural/chassis component) exhibited advanced corrosion (perforation/rust-through), compromising structural integrity and alignment/handling. Availability for Inspection: Yes. The vehicle and the subframe are available for inspection upon request. I can provide photos, videos, and repair estimates if needed. The corroded subframe is fracture and detach suspension mounting points, which may lead to: Sudden loss of vehicle stability or control (especially during braking, cornering, or over bumps). Unpredictable alignment changes causing pulling, vibration, or abnormal tire wear that can escalate into a loss-of-control event. Increased stopping distance and potential for wheel misalignment or collapse, raising the risk of a crash involving occupants and other road users. I limited driving/use due to the risk; issue is a structural safety concern rather than cosmetic. Confirmation: Yes on multiple visits since Oct 2023 -Yesâdiagnosed a
Fuel hose system leaking. Inhalation of gas fumes caused headaches and nausea. Risk of vehicle fire. Yes, the problem has been confirmed by a Mercedes dealer. This is a known issue with Mercedes C300 2015 models and other years. There have been other complaints/lawsuits against Mercedes not wanting to pay for the issue. No warnings just strong gas smell.
Rear subframe rusted out, car is not safe to drive
Rear subframe rusted out, car is not safe to drive
Rear subframe rusted out, car is not safe to drive
Rear subframe completely rusted out. While driving on the hwy I heard a loud noise, a couple minutes later I hit the brakes to slow down to get off my exit and after pressing the brakes the car instantly fishtailed sending me sideways across 2 lanes of traffic. Luckily no one was injured or killed. Iâve seen that the car manufacturer was replacing this issue on models 2008-2015. My vehicle is a 2015 and they are telling me my vehicle is not covered for the issue. The car is not drivable and Mercedes needs to be held accountable. A critical component such as rear subframe completely rusting out in just under 10 years is unheard of and I canât afford to pay 10k to fix it. Please help
Rear subframe completely rusted out. While driving on the hwy I heard a loud noise, a couple minutes later I hit the brakes to slow down to get off my exit and after pressing the brakes the car instantly fishtailed sending me sideways across 2 lanes of traffic. Luckily no one was injured or killed. Iâve seen that the car manufacturer was replacing this issue on models 2008-2015. My vehicle is a 2015 and they are telling me my vehicle is not covered for the issue. The car is not drivable and Mercedes needs to be held accountable. A critical component such as rear subframe completely rusting out in just under 10 years is unheard of and I canât afford to pay 10k to fix it. Please help
Iâm the owner of a Mercedes Benz C- Class Sedan 2015. My Rear Sub Frame Rusted Through at The right trailing arm - Fails state inspection. Mercedes Benz has issued a extended 20 year warranty on all vehicles from 2008 - 2015 C - Class Sedan for Rear Sub Frame that rusted out. Mercedes Benz service advisor stated that my vehicle was not under that extended warranty when he run my vehicle Vin number. My vehicle should be under that warranty, I have the same problem with the same vehicles on the list. Please help. Thank you
The Rear Subframe on this vehicle is rusted and has hole in it. The sub frame requires replacement. The sub frame was inspected by the Mercedes-Benz Dealership, Euro Motorcars in Germantown, MD and they recommended that the sub frame should be replaced. There is an extended warranty that has been issued by Mercedes-Benz for the Model Year and Model (2008-2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupe). However, Mercedes-Benz decline to cover the cost of the repair stating that my VIN is not part of that Warranty. This is a well documented safety issue and I believe that Mercedes-Benz should include my VIN in that extended warranty and replaced the subframe on my car.
I took my 2015 vehicle to the Mercedes dealership and learned the rear subframe is rusted and has holes on two sides. I was warned that it is a safety hazard and could lead to a lack of control and other dangerous situations. I also learned that other 2010 through 2014 Mercedes models in the same class have been recalled for this exact concern. I am disappointed and upset to learn that those concerns are known, but not addressed in this model and put customers at risk.
there is a recall for 2008-2015 Mercades Benz c-300 c/w204. this recall talks about the rear subframe rusting out early on this car. we have a 2015 c300 c/w205. this car is seeing the same early rust seen in the other c-300. the dealership is refusing to do right by the warranty because it is a c/w205 even thought this is a known problem for this year and type of car. I am making this because it should be extended to all c300 2008-2015 cause they all use the same subframe. they changed the subframes and the look of the c-300 starting in 2016. it also would appear that the rust is coming from the inside of the subframe making we wonder how bad it is on the inside if it is making its way to the outside of it. I believe water penetrates into the rear subframe has no drainage and begins to rust. also we take the car to the dealer every 5 Ish months and this last service is the first we have seen of this.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle for the State Inspection, the contact was informed that the rear subframe was rusted, and there was a hole on each side of the rear subframe. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown diagnosis was made, and the dealer ordered an unknown part to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but denied assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Mileage: 60,000
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.
Mileage: 82,000
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.
Mileage: 82,000
On January 21,2025, I had an appointment for an inspection at Mercedes Benz of Smithtown, the dealership I use. I was informed that my car required replacement of a rotted rear subframe. A hole had rotted through, causing the car to "Fail inspection and was NOT SAFE" to drive. I was provided a video showing the damage. There was a recall in effect however, my Vin # was not included and itâs status has not changed. The 2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupe Vin # [XXX] , which was neglected to be included in the recall covers 2008-2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupes, regarding rotted rear subframe. MBUSA extended the vehicle Warranty 4 yrs/ 50,000 miles to 20 yrs/unlimited miles. However, I do not qualify for reimbursement of $4,014.92, because my Vin # was left off the list. Mercedes customer assistant center states they can't help, has to be included by NHTSA, when I said they cannot add a Vin #. I was then told, it has to come from the head office in Germany. Nothing like getting a run around no
Failed component: Front Sunroof Clip What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Sunroof clip, yes. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The glass pane lifted while the car was in motion and had to be held down to secure it until the car stopped. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No While merging to enter the freeway at approx 45-50 mph I opened my sunroof. At about halfway back the glass began to lift up off the track/railing as if it was going to fly off the track. Had I not been holding the button to open the sunroof I would not have noticed and the entire glass pane would have blown off, possibly damaging the
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for a routine maintenance check, the contact was informed that there was severe corrosion on the subframe of the vehicle. The contact was informed that the vehicle was unsafe to drive and that several failures might occur due to the failure. The contact stated that recently, while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle swerved, and the contact lost control of the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that there was a warranty on the vehicle related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer covered under the warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Mileage: 110,000
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for a routine maintenance check, the contact was informed that there was severe corrosion on the subframe of the vehicle. The contact was informed that the vehicle was unsafe to drive and that several failures might occur due to the failure. The contact stated that recently, while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle swerved, and the contact lost control of the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that there was a warranty on the vehicle related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer covered under the warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Mileage: 110,000
Check Engine light came on recently, fault code P052E is identified by scanner. Car has 60,000 miles on original it. MB dealer wants to charge $300 for diagnostics, repair job (parts and labor) may cost over $2,000. Since this is critical emission compliance part/system, why is it not recalling?
Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.
Read our methodology — how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.